China Air Force accidentally leaked its super long range air-to-air missile, the PL-17, mounted on a J-16 fighter. The photo has been taken offline from official website. This is the first time an official photo of PL-17 missile appears online. With a range of approximately 400 kilometers, surpassing the PL-15, it is very likely the world's longest-reaching air-to-air weapons, exceeding any known counterparts in the US arsenal. This missile equips the J-16 fighter based on Su-30 design, providing a significant tactical advantage aligned with China's anti-access/area-denial (A2/AD) strategy.

It is unknown if the stealthy J-20 fighter will carry the PL-17. A computer generated artwork has appeared online. Since it can be fired from 400km distance, there should be no technical concern for the J-20 to adopt this weapon.

A few images on social media has depicted some J-16s with various air-to-air missiles, prominently featuring PL-17 carried below pylons. Now its verification is certain, but the context of the latest image, whether during routine training, larger military drills, or missile testing is unclear.

The PL-17 is reported to mainly target U.S. E-2 and E-3 airborne early warning aircraft, as well as refueling tankers, command and control aircraft. It follows a lofting trajectory to maximise its reach, bypassing U.S. front line interceptor aircraft, hitting the key platforms of the U.S. Air Force and Navy.

Reports from November 25, 2023, suggest that the PLAAF unit underwent live-fire tests, engaging in real-combat training exercises to achieve air dominance. The PL-17, presumed to feature a data link, plays a critical role in such exercises, potentially coordinating with Chinese airborne early warning aircraft and other support assets. The formation of the J-16s, with specific jets acting as 'missile trucks,' underscores the missile's potential role in neutralizing vulnerable support assets, aligning with China's strategic objectives.

The shared image showcases two J-16s carrying a significant payload, each with the same missile arrangement. Analysts suggest the loadout includes four PL-15s, four PL-10s, one PL-12, and one PL-17. The PL-17's placement on the innermost pylon of the left wing indicates its specific position.

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Photo and video: Wiki common, PLAdaily

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